The once-common practice of broom-making in schools and homes is now a fading memory, contributing to the rise in prices across Ghanaian markets. What used to be a standard activity for students using palm fronts to make brooms as part of their craft work has all but disappeared, replaced by the convenience of ready-made brooms sold in the “apampam stores” and markets. Today, these smaller brooms cost as much as 10 cedis, a significant price hike from when most households made their own.
In the past, brooms crafted at home were larger, more durable, and accessible to everyone. Schools encouraged students to use natural resources like palm fronts, clay, and canes to produce everyday items such as brooms, pots, and baskets. These skills were not only a means of earning marks from teachers but also fostered a culture of self-sufficiency, reducing the need to purchase such items from the market.
As modernization swept through the country, the emphasis on craft work in schools began to decline. Today, the art of broom-making is barely taught, and the tradition has nearly vanished. This shift has led to a surge in demand for “already made” brooms, pushing prices higher in the marketplace.
These brooms, though smaller and often of lesser quality, are now a staple in most homes.
The consequences of this change are evident. With fewer people making their own brooms, the price continues to rise. Unlike in the past when brooms were made to last longer, the smaller “apampam store”(market) bought brooms wear out quickly, creating a cycle where consumers must buy more frequently, further inflating costs.
Older generations still recall the days when craft work was an integral part of school curricula, with students not only learning valuable skills but also contributing to household needs. This era, they say, represented a time of resourcefulness and practical education that prepared students for life beyond the classroom.
If this trend continues, traditional broom-making may become a lost skill entirely, leaving future generations dependent on commercial products. The rising prices, coupled with the diminishing quality of brooms in today’s market, signal a need for a renewed focus on reviving these essential crafts.
